How To Breed Fighter Fish

Bettas, also called Siamese fighting fish, are part of the gourami family of fish. They have been classified as belonging to the Ananbantidae family as well because of the labyrinth organs that are common to the species, allowing them to directly absorb oxygen from the air. The spotted and picta bettas are the most common, with the betta splendens species growing up to 3 inches long. Breeding bettas is a straightforward process that requires some attention to details as well as a small investment for the best results.

Things You'll Need

  • Male and female bettas
  • 3 aquariums, 5 to 10 gallons
  • Brine shrimp fish food
  • Glass jar
  • Fish net
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the betta couple. They can usually be identified by their color. The female is usually more a drab, while the male has flowing fins and rich colors. Each should be roughly the same size to avoid injury to the female.

    • 2

      Separate the bettas into individual aquariums and allow them to feed on a quality diet of brine shrimp. Prepare a third exclusive breeding tank. Let them become familiar with their environments. Check the water quality of each tank with a water test kit.

    • 3

      Place the aquariums next to each other so the male and female can see each other. Allow this to go on for approximately three days.

    • 4

      Use the fish net to transfer the male to the breeding tank. Rinse the net, then run it through the water of the aquarium to make sure that no unwanted bacteria attaches to him. Let him explore and get to know the new environment.

    • 5

      Scoop the female into a glass jar filled with water then set the jar into the breeding tank. Watch to see how the male reacts to her. Don't be alarmed if he flares his gills. This is actually a good sign and hopefully will be followed by the male creating a bubble nest and returning again to the female periodically to display himself.

    • 6

      Release the female into the breeding tank after the male builds the bubble nest. He should pursue her aggressively. Make sure the tank is stocked with plenty of good hiding places, such as java plants and ornaments, for the female to gain respite. Once the male leads her near the nest, he will embrace her and she will release her eggs, which will fall to the bottom of the aquarium. Take the female out of the tank.